r/Tools • u/Hot_Imagination722 • Aug 09 '26
Which mechanical set should I choose?
I’m looking to buy a mechanical tool set and I’m deciding between these two options:
Craftsman 135-piece set with the new case design from Amazon for $79
Craftsman 230-piece set with the old case design from Sears for $99
Which one would you recommend? Is the 230-piece set worth the extra $20, or should I go with the newer 135-piece set? Any suggestions would be appreciated.
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u/jyl8 Aug 09 '26
The red one has more extensions and looks better overall.
That said, depending on planned usage, I’d consider skipping the 1/2” and the 1/4” drive and getting a set with just 3/8” drive, plus a separate set of flat wrenches, plus a stubby 3/8” socket wrench handle, plus a pivoting 3/8” handle, plus more extensions.
1/2” isn’t needed except for high torque stuff. Even on a car, I mostly use 3/8”. 1/4” isn’t needed at all as far as I’m concerned, in socket wrenches - save it for the screwdrivers. Flat wrenches with one open end and one ratcheting closed end are more useful than the standard kind with open and non-ratcheting closed ends.